But before you step inside for the first time, you may be asking yourself a question that comes up a lot: how many degrees is it in a sauna? Is 100°C still relaxing or already hell? And what if you can’t stand the heat, but still want to enjoy its benefits?
Dry sauna – a classic that warms you to the core
If you think “sauna,” you probably just imagine a dry sauna – otherwise known as a Finnish sauna. This is the one where the atmosphere is really hot. Temperatures in a dry sauna reach up to 100°C (in some cases even a little more), but thanks to very low humidity, the body does not perceive this as oppressive heat.
It’s a sauna that stimulates circulation, promotes detoxification, warms up every muscle and leaves you feeling pleasantly cleansed – both physically and mentally. It is not necessary to sit in it for a long time. Sometimes just a few minutes is enough to feel that you are here, and not in the rush of everyday life.
Wet sauna – for those who prefer softer heat
A completely different experience is offered by the wet sauna, also known as a steam bath. It is less “fiery” – the temperature in a steam sauna varies between 40 and 60°C – but the humidity reaches 100%. As a result, the air is thick, moist, enveloping. like a fine mist that penetrates the skin and calms the breath.
It’s a great choice for people who can’t stand dry heat well, or are just starting out on the sauna adventure. It has a beneficial effect on the respiratory system and skin, moisturizes it and helps cleanse it of toxins.
Infrared sauna – heat that works deeper
What if you like neither heat nor steam, but still dream of all these benefits? This is where modern technology comes to the rescue – the infrared (infrared) sauna.
Instead of heating the air, infrared rays penetrate directly into the body, stimulating the body to sweat. The interior of an infrared sauna has a temperature of about 40-60°C, but the body reacts as if it were much warmer.
It’s a gentle, yet highly effective form of recovery – especially appreciated by people with joint problems , muscle tension or after a workout.
Comparison of temperatures and conditions in the sauna
| Type of sauna | Temperature | Moisture | Characteristics |
| Dry sauna | 80-100 °C | Low (about 5-15%) | Intense, cleansing, stimulates circulation |
| Wet sauna | 40-60 °C | Very high (up to 100%) | Gentle, moisturizing, relaxing |
| Infrared sauna | 40-60 °C | Low | Works with infrared rays, ideal for muscle tension |
Why use a sauna?
Whether you choose a dry sauna or a wet sauna or an infrared sauna, regular sauntering has many benefits:
- Supports immunity and detoxification of the body
- improves circulation and oxygenation of cells
- Helps relax muscles and regenerate the body after exercise
- promotes relaxation, stress reduction and mood improvement
- Beneficially affects the appearance of the skin and the quality of sleep
Sauna is not only a health practice, but also a way to take care of yourself – without pressure, at a rhythm you choose for yourself.
We write more about the benefits of saunas here: What the sauna gives, or the advantages and benefits of sauntering
Contraindications – when not to use the sauna?
Although sauntering has many benefits, there are situations in which you should refrain or consult your doctor before visiting:
- heart disease, arrhythmias, circulatory insufficiency
- hypertension (uncontrolled)
- Pregnancy (especially the first trimester)
- infections, fever, cold
- Cancer diseases (under treatment)
- epilepsy
- advanced diabetes
- skin diseases, inflammation or open wounds
- Kidney or liver failure
- A tendency to fainting or heat intolerance
If you have doubts – always consult your doctor before visiting a sauna, especially with chronic diseases.
What temperature in the sauna is right for you?
How many degrees is the sauna? As you can see – it depends. A dry sauna will warm you up to 100°C, a wet sauna will envelop you with steam at 50°C, and an infrared will work deeply at just 40°C. Each type has its own advantages and responds to different needs of the body.
The most important thing is to listen to your body and choose what makes you happy. It’s not about temperature records or length of stay – it’s about feeling good, recuperating and having a moment just for yourself.
If you are going to the sauna for the first time, we encourage you to read our guide: First visit to the sauna – how to prepare?